The Fire Department began motorization in November of 1916 with the purchase of a combined chemical engine and hose truck. This original purchase was followed by a succession of motor fire trucks and ladder trucks until at present the Department is equipped with seven motor vehicles and pumping equipment which is capable of discharging about 4,000 gallons, or approximately 20 tons of water per minute on a con- flagration.

The number of fire calls received yearly has grown from 14 alarms in 1880 to over 200 in 1954. The most destructive fires in the history of the city’s growth are as follows:

1866—“The Great Fire”, described above was the most destructive.

1884—In the early hours of the morning of February 20th all the build— ings on the south side of Queen Street were destroyed, including the Cameron block, the Post Office, the Patriot Office and others.

1887—The Mark Wright Furniture Factory (now HMCS Queen Char— lotte) on Kent Street was destroyed on March 5th, along With all the adjoining buildings on Hillsboro Street.

1888—-Fire destroyed all in its path from the Excelsior Skating Rink on Kent Street, along the east side of Prince Street, including the Baptist Church. This building being of brick, enables the Fire Brigade to gain control. This fire took place on March 15th.

1888~—On November 17th. P. J. Foran’s tailoring shop was completely destroyed by fire. The new water works system was used for the first time.

1890—Night of August 30th. Lieutenant of Salvage Corps, Theo. J. Farquharson, died of injuries received whilst in action, fighting a huge fire in KlacLeod’s stable on Queen Street.

Charlottetown Fire Department —- 1955.